Our declining culture at root of problem

Everybody has an opinion regarding the gun control debate. Because of recent tragic events, emotions have permeated the discussions, but it is imperative that facts and logic prevail.

Let’s begin with Section 2 of Article 6 of the U.S. Constitution. Here we are reminded that the Constitution is the “supreme law of the land.” So no law, executive order, or any other action can properly rise above the Constitution.

The Second Amendment to the Constitution was added in 1791. It says, in its entirety: “A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.” Thus, law-abiding citizens have a clearly-stated constitutional right to possess firearms that can be withdrawn only through amending the Constitution. We can reasonably assume that this right does not apply to criminals or mentally unstable people.

It would be wiser to ameliorate the root causes of violence. Americans should stop supporting with their dollars violence-laced movies, music, video games, etc. If the market for these forms of “entertainment” disappears, they won’t be produced.

Restoring and strengthening the family, wherein parents inculcate sound values and attitudes, would result in less antisocial and violent behaviors. Men who father children and then desert their responsibilities need to feel intense public pressure. Their children are starting life at a disadvantage, and are at greater risk of developing social problems.

In short, our declining culture is what really needs addressing. It’s common sense.